Views from Rugby Union

Wales scrum-half Gareth Davies has signed a national dual contract for the first time

Scarlets trio Jonathan Davies, Jake Ball and Gareth Davies have all signed national dual contracts with the Welsh Rugby Union.

Centre Jonathan Davies has taken up a contract option to remain at the Scarlets, lock Ball has signed his second dual contract and scrum-half Gareth Davies has agreed one for the first time.

National dual contracts are funded 60 per cent by the WRU and 40 per cent by a player's region.

Jonathan Davies and Ball are currently sidelined by injuries, but Gareth Davies was an integral part of Wales' first two Six Nations performances against Scotland and England.

WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips said: "This is another significant announcement for Welsh rugby, with three experienced internationals committing their future to the game in Wales and to the Scarlets.

Jonathan Davies is currently sidelined with a knee injury

"It is testament to the NDCs and the environment we are creating in partnership with the regions that Jake and Jonathan have both signed extensions to their NDCs.

"It is vital we retain our best talent for the future of our game on and off the field, and Gareth signing an NDC for the first time is another important commitment."